Do you often find yourself making New Year’s resolutions that you can’t seem to keep? It’s easy to set high expectations for ourselves only to find out in January that these goals may have been too lofty or time-consuming.
More often than not, health and wellness resolutions are highly restrictive and unsustainable, leaving most people to break them within a few weeks. While it is fine to have goals and strive for self-improvement, make sure your resolutions are realistic and achievable. They don’t have to take up too much time, money, or effort to yield positive results.
Here are some easy-to-achieve, healthy New Year’s resolutions you can actually keep and follow for life.
Eat Whole Foods
Eating more whole foods is one of the most sustainable ways to improve your overall health, and it’s much easier than you think. Whole foods include vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and fish. These contain nutrients that your body needs to function at an optimal level.
Sit Less, Move More
Many people sit more than they should, whether it’s due to having a sedentary job or simply being inactive. Sitting for long hours can have negative effects on your overall health. Moving more is an easy and attainable resolution that can be adjusted to your lifestyle. It’s as simple as getting up from your desk and walking for 5 minutes every hour.
Find a Physical Activity You Enjoy
Losing weight is one of the top New Year’s resolutions people make. Most people start strong but don’t manage to make their new routine a lasting habit. You can increase the chances of making your fitness resolutions stick by choosing an activity based on enjoyment and whether it fits into your schedule (my fun activity is swing dancing). Aim to exercise a few days a week instead of every day.
Cook More Meals at Home
People who eat more home-cooked meals are healthier on average than those who eat meals on the go. Meal prepping and cooking at home decreases your chance of being overweight. Start by making one meal a day, then increase the frequency over time until you’re making most of your meals and snacks at home.
Practice Self-Care
If you have a busy schedule, making a resolution to practice self-care may take some planning, but it’s worth the time investment. Taking time for yourself is not selfish; it’s imperative for your health and well-being. Self-care doesn’t have to be elaborate or time-consuming. It can simply mean taking a relaxing bath every week or going for a walk in nature.
Creating a healthier relationship with food and taking better care of your body and mind can drastically improve your health in various ways. Try out a new resolution to help make this year a healthier and happier one.
I am forming a group of 10 people for a healthy habits challenge in January, and I’d love for you to join me! It will be expert-led, low time requirements and fun! For more info, click here.
[RECIPE] SPINACH ALFREDO
Serves: 4
Ingredients (use organic where possible):
- 2 cups dairy-free milk
- 3 tablespoons tapioca starch or non-GMO cornstarch
- Sea salt, garlic powder, and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes (optional)
- 2/3 cup finely ground organic parmesan cheese or vegan cheese
- 3 cups baby spinach
- 2 15-ounce BPA-free cans white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 pound gluten-free fettuccine pasta, cooked to package directions
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh basil
For an omnivore option, reduce the beans by 1 can, then serve pasta topped with garlic shrimp.
Directions:
- Whisk together milk, starch, and dry seasonings in a large pot over medium heat. Bring to a simmer.
- Cook, whisking constantly, for about 4 minutes or until thickened.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, then whisk in cheese until melted.
- Stir in spinach and cook for 2 minutes or until wilted. Stir in beans and cooked pasta, then cook for 3 minutes or until heated through.
- Serve pasta in bowls topped with basil.
To Your Health,
Patti
